Catholics in the Diocese of Arlington were directed to oppose two upcoming Virginia ballot initiatives concerning abortion access and the definition of marriage. Bishop Michael Burbidge issued a pastoral letter instructing priests to read the guidance during Masses on September 12 and 13, emphasizing the moral obligations of the faithful regarding these constitutional amendments.
Opposition to Abortion Expansion
The first measure seeks to amend the Virginia Constitution to establish a legal right to unregulated abortions. The proposed text would allow procedures by unlicensed practitioners at any stage of pregnancy and would remove parental involvement in decisions for minor daughters. Currently, Virginia law permits abortion through the 26th week of pregnancy.
Bishop Burbidge characterized the initiative as an expansion of abortion beyond reasonable limits. He described the proposal as “extreme,” “unnecessary” and “wrong.” The constitutional language would define a fundamental right to reproductive freedom that includes prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, abortion care, miscarriage management, and fertility care.
Under the proposed amendment, this right could only be restricted if justified by a compelling state interest achieved through the least restrictive means. Exceptions for third-trimester regulation would remain possible in cases involving maternal health or non-viable pregnancies.
Defense of Marriage Definition
The second ballot question proposes removing the existing constitutional definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman. The amendment would prohibit denying a marriage license based on sex, gender, or race.
Bishop Burbidge argued that repealing this definition would “enshrine gender ideology” and obscure the theological truth that humans are created in God’s image. He framed both measures as threats to fundamental moral justice within the Commonwealth.
Ecclesial Guidance and Prudential Judgment
The Arlington diocese published the letter on its website on September 12 in both English and Spanish. Bishop Burbidge directed parishioners to visit the “Catholics Vote No” website for further information. He noted that while the Church is not partisan, it has a duty to speak on matters of faith and morals.
This directive aligns with a broader effort by Virginia’s bishops, who co-authored a letter in August urging Catholics to vote against Questions 1 and 2. The state’s episcopal leadership distinguished these issues from Question 3, which concerns voting rights for individuals who have completed felony sentences. The bishops classified the third question as a matter of prudential judgment, leaving the decision to individual conscience.
In contrast to Arlington’s specific instructions, priests in the Diocese of Richmond were encouraged to preach on the election but were not provided with a standardized letter or script. This highlights varying approaches among dioceses in communicating voting guidance to their congregations.
Moral Imperative
Bishop Burbidge concluded his message by calling for unity and spiritual reliance. “An issue of fundamental moral justice confronts each one of us,” he stated. He urged the faithful to act collectively, adding, “Together, with God’s grace, we can protect life, liberty, and the future of our Virginia home.”
The guidance reflects the Church’s consistent teaching on the sanctity of life from conception and the traditional understanding of marriage. As the election approaches, diocesan leaders are emphasizing that these votes carry significant moral weight for Catholic voters in Virginia.